lying a little and stealing a little will get you nicely through the world

used to suggest that dishonesty and theft can be useful strategies for achieving success

The origin of the proverb "lying a little and stealing a little will get you nicely through the world" is not specifically attributed to a well-known source, but it reflects a cynical perspective on human behavior. The saying embodies the idea that some people may resort to unethical methods to achieve their goals, believing that minor wrongdoings may not lead to serious consequences. However, it serves as a cautionary reminder that relying on deceit and theft can eventually undermine trust and integrity, and such behavior often leads to negative outcomes in the long run.